IDA LOUISE OSTERBACH survived Indian and range wars and the murder of her husband. She’s kept the farm going through sheer grit and the help of her cousin, a friend and two farm hands. She’s managed a profit, paid the mortgage and re-paid the crop loans. Hard working, focused, fiercely proprietary, the last thing she has time for is romance.

JARED BUELL—widower neighbor and wealthy rancher—was never particularly charitable when it came to farmers, even eye-catching ones like Ida. He’s not looking to start trouble or anything else with her. His comfortable existence needs no complications, thank you very much. Then an old nemesis comes to town and threatens his and Ida’s property. He has no choice but to get involved.

Experience this action-packed romp through 1895 Wyoming where an outlaw schemes to take over the town, and Ida and Jared find love when they least expect it.

Readers are telling JoAnn

“…stayed in bed to read it to the end. I read it even though I had planned work to do.”

Another said, “Joann I loved your book. I could not put it down. Am so anxious to read book 2.”

And another, “The story held my interest and your writing seamlessly flowed.”

“Courage makes ordinary people extraordinary. Courage need only be the willingness to take the first step.” —JoAnn Smith Ainsworth

JoAnn’s Themes

my characters learn...

Rewards come with risks.
This theme stems from my trip around the world when 28 years old. Rewards were well worth the risks, bringing unforgettable memories.

Ethics matter.
The independent, pioneering spirit and the code of honor of my grandparents emerges in my characters.

Fighting may be necessary.
My characters fight against Nazi spies, social prejudice, and other worldly events to preserve what they hold most dear.